3 Bad Habits That Cause Plumbing Issues
Originally published July 21, 2019, updated Jan. 12, 2022
You probably don’t think too much about the plumbing system within your Selbyville, Delaware, home until something goes wrong. What you may not realize is that certain things that you are used to doing can actually impact the flow and cause plumbing issues.
Flushing or Rinsing Large Items
When you flush a toilet or rinse something down the drain, it’s important to make sure that it’s not too large for the pipe. Products like baby wipes, certain sanitary items, and paper towels are not designed to be flushed and may not break down, resulting in clogged pipes. Protect your plumbing by only flushing toilet paper. Throw large food scraps into the garbage can rather than rinsing them down your kitchen sink. You should also avoid pouring fats and oils down the drain as they can solidify within the pipes and cause blockages.
Excessive Use of Drain Cleaner
When your drains are moving slower than usual, you may be tempted to pour a bottle of commercial drain cleaner down and wait for the water to start flowing again. However, these products contain strong chemicals that can actually harm your pipes if you use them too frequently. The weakened pipes are more susceptible to cracks and other damage, which can lead to leaks and other major issues. Before you pour anything down the drain to clear a clog, try using a plunger or snake. You can also look for eco-friendly options that use bacteria and enzymes to dissolve clogs, rather than harsh chemicals.
Ignoring Potential Plumbing Issues
If you notice anything concerning with your plumbing, it’s important to address issues right away instead of hoping they go away on their own. A dripping faucet can increase your water bill significantly. A backed-up or clogged toilet often overflows. Instead of taking a risk, make sure to have an experienced plumber come in to figure out what’s causing the issue and fix it before it gets worse.
Our team at Custom Mechanical offers a full range of plumbing services, so contact us to address any issues you might have at your home.
Image provided by iStock